Issues of Gender – Exhibiton / Performance

Original Performance on
February 14, 1991

1991 – Provocative exhibition stimulates provocative dance response throughout the Arlington Art Center by Maida Withers and the Dance Construction Company. In 1991 there was a growing awareness and sensitivity to issues about gender. Maida Withers was commissioned to create a performance throughout Arlington Art Center, Arlington, Virginia. The exhibition was forward looking and the dance performance took a very progressive approach relating to the exhibitions presented January 25 through March 23, 1991. The dance performance occurred on February 14. 1991 on Valentines Day in the U.S.A.

1991 was an intense time related to gender issues and the Arlington Art Center was very daring and influential to dedicate the entire Center to such a controversial issue. The Company had access to all the installations. Our approach was to open raise issues raised by the individual exhibitions. Maida was primed for creating this show since she had been engaged for several years as an activist for the Equal Rights Amendment on issues related to fairness and equity for women.

We deeply regret we cannot identify the name of the musician, a saxophone player.

Photo Credit: Chris Dohse

What the press is saying

"1991 was an intense time related to the emerging issues of gender. The Arlington Arts Center was very daring and influential to dedicate the entire building to such a controversial issue. This opportunity to create choreography specifically in relationship to the various exhibitions throughout the Center was deeply appreciated since I had been involved in issues related to fairness and equity for women for many years. Our performance was rather specific and did create controversy for its openness at that time." Maida Withers